What Keeps You Motivated?

 

Abraham Maslow was one of the most famous psychologists of the twentieth century from the United States of America. He is well-known across the globe for his need hierarchy theory. This theory of motivation has guided innumerable leaders and people in the management field. 

According to this theory, every human being has needs that represent a hierarchical order, as depicted in the diagram below:

Initially, he stated that all these needs maintain a strict hierarchy, but later on, he made many modifications to this theory, stating that their order is not as rigid as he initially proposed. He further added that many times human behavior is multi-motivated and simultaneously aims to fulfill different needs. 

Thank God for those additions! Otherwise, our unidirectional brains would have interpreted it in a very wrong way. Not that the current way of its interpretation is 100% correct. Let’s explore different possibilities.

Is it because of this theory that today we look up to an accomplished person, someone with more freedom and confidence? And if a person who regularly practices meditation enters the room, all eyes will be set on him. He is self-actualized! The highest valued in the pyramid! 

The way I interpret it is that you cannot focus too much on Physiological and Safety needs. They are endlessly demanding. They can never satisfy you completely. On the other hand, Esteem or Achievement (as it is sometimes called) and Self-Actualization emphasize too much on the individual approach towards success. Rather, it’s the middle Social or the Affiliation needs that help you balance between the lower order and the higher order of your needs, by giving you a sense of purpose. 

The current system of education (even yoga education) breeds this hierarchy unconsciously. We value Achievement more than Affiliation. But we have to wake up to realize one day that only Achievement is not sustainable. It's a matter of the mind, which has to let go of its tendencies one day or another. But Affiliation is here to stay. Because it's a matter of the heart- the home of the ultimate reality. 

So, as we go up and down this pyramid, trying to set and reset our minds and actions, think about what can pull you longer? Your visible achievements or the silent forces behind them? You will get your way to sustain and master the competition. It all lies in your mind!